Sunday, February 21, 2016

Wait for It

The Red Sox want us to "Get Ready for It", the new and improved Bosox. We shouldn't be quick to judge a book by its cover, but Pablo Sandoval's gravity-challenged arrival smacks of arrogance and entitlement.

Contrast the San Antonio Spurs' championship attitude with the Red Sox 'chicken and beer' legacy.

The Red Sox third baseman showed up larger-than-life and you've got to believe the photographer waited to get this snap next to food service.

A .245/.292/.366/.658 slash line doesn't equate with "nothing to prove" after a nothing year for Sandoval. It's reasonable to expect that either Travis Shaw, Brock Holt or both could do as well or better while (if you'll pardon the expression) "hungrier" to contribute to the team. FanGraphs describes his year. "Actually, he had the worst season of any major leaguer." Boston fans can actually be reasonable...but you don't get unconditional love. We appreciate "lunch pail" guys who show consistent effort and accountability. If Sandoval actually showed up in shape and a bit penitent, "I'm disappointed in my performance last season and determined to help the team be successful this year," at least some of us would buy low. As for now, Sandoval's on the Triple Pack Disposal Watch List with John Farrell and Hanley Ramirez.